Scholey, 26, of Blounts Court Road, Sonning Common denied shaking the four-month-old baby and causing his death on June 29, 2009.

In a statement released by Thames Valley Police, Hannah and Andrew Preece, the parents of Thomas Preece said:

“Thomas was our life. He was our pride and joy. Words cannot explain the pain we have felt every day since Thomas was taken from us, it will never leave us.

“Whilst we are satisfied with the jury's verdict, nothing will ever take away the pain that Colin Scholey has put us through due to his cowardly actions.

“We would again like to thank all of the medical staff involved, our health visitor Aileen who has been amazing, our work, friends and family. Without their continued support we would not have been able to cope.

“We would also like to pay particular thanks to Det Sgt Mark Davis and especially PC Becky Hogg, our Family Liaison Officer. Becky has been a tremendous support to both of us, and we will always be grateful for the help she has given.